THUNDER BAY – The province’s medical officer of health says would-be trick-or-treaters in Northwestern Ontario should stay in their own neighbourhoods to celebrate Halloween this year.
Dr. David Williams on Monday recommended against the annual tradition in four of the hardest-hit areas of the province – Toronto, Ottawa, Peel and York – adding those in other regions of the province should take precautions on Oct. 31.
First and foremost, both trick-or-treaters and those handing out candy should wear a face covering.
“A costume mask is not a substitute for a face covering and should not be worn over a face covering as it may make it difficult to breathe,” Williams said in a release issued by the province.
Other suggestions include not congregating or lingering at doorsteps and if waiting, remember to keep at least two metres apart. People should also avoid high-touch surfaces and objects.
Frequent hand washing is also recommended for those collecting or handing out treats.
The province also says a bowl of treats on the doorstep or at the end of the driveway is also a no-no.
“Do not leave treats in a bucket or bowl for children to grab and consider using tongs or other similar tools to hand out treats,” Williams said.
Williams reminded the public the province is in a second wave of COVID-19 and to avoid gatherings with people outside of their household and stay home if feeling ill, even if symptoms are mild. He also recommended those at higher risk for the virus refrain from taking part in trick-or-treating in 2020.
Those who want to skip trick-or-treating this year are being encouraged to consider alternatives, like dressing up and participating in virtual activities, a Halloween candy hunt with people living in their own household, carving pumpkins, movie nights and scary stories and decorating front lawns.
Williams also said the public should limit trips outside the home to essential trips, including work, school, grocery shopping, medical appointments and outdoor physical activity.
